Just returned from a short week in Chicago, site of the SIOR Fall World Conference. Just about 1,000 attendees and lots of opinions!

* Overwhelming opinion is this industrial real estate run has lots of legs left to it. In fact, at the risk of sounding overly-optimistic, most people don't see an end in sight (of course, isn't that the time you should start cashing out!!??).

*Nationally, vacancy rates are at an all-time low and rates continue to rise. Speculative construction in many markets is having a tough time keeping up with demand.

*E-Commerce continues to be the driver. Biggest challenge is to get closer to the customer (last mile). Imaginative ideas even include multi-level warehouses (Prologis - Seattle & San Francisco). Redevelopment of urban sites. Re-use of previously thought to be obsolete real estate.

* Regionally? Still seeing a product shortage in high quality industrial real estate. Most of what is being built is just about spoken for (few exceptions). Bifurcated market however. Less-than-high grade space continues to struggle to be absorbed. Don't see that changing in the near future. Distribution center construction market continues (Trader Joe's/Bloomfield and recently announced 234,000 SF auto parts deal at New England Tradeport).

All information furnished regarding property sale, rental or financing is gathered from multiple sources, but no warranty or representation is made as to the accuracy thereof and same is subject to errors, omissions, change of price, rental or other conditions, prior sale, lease or financing or withdrawal without notice. No liability of any kind is to be imposed on the broker herein.